Nail polish kit for use by an automated nail polish application apparatus

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/481,851 filed on Jul. 30, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,993,520, which is a National Phase of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/IL2018/050110 having International Filing Date of Jan. 31, 2018, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/574,241 filed on Oct. 19, 2017; 62/533,720 filed on Jul. 18, 2017 and 62/452,461 filed on Jan. 31, 2017. The contents of the above applications are all incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein in their entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a kit for usage by an automated nail polish application apparatus and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a kit comprising one or more nail polish capsules for usage by an automated nail polish application apparatus.

Applying nail polish to fingernails and/or toenails has been practiced since ancient times. Decorating the finger and/or toe nails is still fashionable in modern times as many people, in particular woman apply nail polish to decorate their fingernails and/or toenails.

Traditionally, manual nail polish application is the most common method. The manual nail polish application may require some expertise, skills and/or experience and may be time consuming. In addition manual application of the nail polish to one self's nails may be physically challenging due to the need to master the art in both hands and in case of the foot toenails reaching conveniently and efficiently the toes may also present difficulties. While many individuals have mastered the art of applying the nail polish manually for themselves, nail polish application may typically be practiced by professional manicurists and/or pedicurists.

With the advancement of technology and an enabling technical environment, automated nail polish application is becoming more common and popular and automated nail polish application apparatuses are used by more and more users for efficiently applying nail polish.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit for usage by a nail polish application apparatus, the kit comprising one or more nail polish capsules. Each of the nail polish capsule(s) comprises a body portion defining a reservoir containing a nail polish fluid and a non-screw detachable cover having an integrated nail polish applying element. The non-screw detachable cover is mechanically coupled to an upper face of the body portion to seal an opening in the upper face.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for manufacturing a kit for usage by a nail polish application apparatus, comprising producing one or more nail polish capsules by: <ul id="ul0001" list-style="none"><li id="ul0001-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0002" list-style="none"><li id="ul0002-0001" num="0008">Producing a body portion defining a reservoir adapted to contain nail polish fluid.</li><li id="ul0002-0002" num="0009">Producing a non-screw detachable cover having an integrated nail polish applying element.</li><li id="ul0002-0003" num="0010">Inserting the nail polish fluid into the body portion.</li><li id="ul0002-0004" num="0011">Mechanically coupling the non-screw detachable cover to an upper face of the body portion to seal an opening in the upper face.</li></ul></li></ul>

Such a kit may be easily used by an automated nail polish application apparatus since attachment/detachment of the detachable cover to the body portion is not utilized by a screwing mechanism hence no complex rotation and/or screwing operations and/or mechanisms are required by the nail polish application apparatus. This may significantly reduce the complexity and/or cost of the nail polish application apparatus. Moreover, while sealing the body portion to prevent spill and/or evaporation of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more of its components from the body portion, the coupling strength of the detachable cover to the body portion may be significantly low (e.g. 1 G) thus requiring significantly low detachment force. The automated nail polish application apparatus may therefore be equipped with significantly lower cost actuators having limited detachment force thus reducing the overall size and hence reducing the cost of the nail polish application apparatus.

In an optional implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the kit further comprises a locking element rigid along a longitudinal axis of the one or more nail polish capsules when mechanically and detachably fastening the detachable cover to the body portion and limiting a movement of the non-screw detachable cover with respect to the body portion in the longitudinal axis. The significantly low mechanical coupling strength used to couple the detachable cover to the body portion may be insufficient when the capsule is exposed to various environmental conditions, for example, increased heat, low pressure, high pressure and/or the like. The locking element prevent the movement of the detachable cover sealing the body portion may allow the kit to be stored, shipped and/or handled under extreme environmental conditions without compromising sealing of the body portion.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element is a rigid container storing the one or more nail polish capsules, a first wall of the container is in physical contact with an external surface of a bottom of the body portion and a second wall of the container opposite the first wall is in physical contact with an external surface of a top of the non-screw detachable cover. The rigid container may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion. Moreover, the nail polish capsule(s) may be easily collected, extracted and/or removed from the container, either manually by a user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus. Furthermore, the container may serve as a packaging form of the capsules for storage, shipping and/or delivery.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element is connected to a first mechanical locking provision disposed on at least part of a rim of the non-screw detachable cover and to a second mechanical locking provision disposed on at least part of a perimeter wall of the body portion. Using the mechanical locking provisions available by in the nail polish capsule, either in the detachable cover and/or in the body portion may allow efficient and/or simple application of a plurality of locking elements for limiting the movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element is a wrapping sheet wrapped at least partially around the first mechanical locking provision and the second mechanical locking provision, wherein the wrapping sheet is detachable by one or more of: peeling the wrapping sheet and tearing a tearing line disposed in the wrapping sheet. The wrapping sheet may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion. The wrapping sheet may typically be very low cost as well as simple to apply thus reducing the cost and/or complexity of nail polish capsule, the kit and/or the manufacturing process of the kit.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element comprises one or more removable clips, the one or more removable clips are removed by one or more of: detaching, moving, rotating, pressing, bending and breaking the one or more removable clip. The clip(s) may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion. The clip(s) may typically be very low cost as well as simple to apply thus reducing the cost and/or complexity of nail polish capsule, the kit and/or the manufacturing process of the kit.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element comprises a first magnet mechanically coupled to the body portion and a second magnet mechanically to the non-screw detachable cover, a magnetic field induced between the first magnet and the second magnet fastens the non-screw detachable cover to the body portion. The magnets may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion. The magnets may simplify the detachment process which may be required by the nail polish application apparatus since the detachment may involve creating and/or removing a magnet field which may not involve moving elements thus reducing complexity and/or increasing reliability of the nail polish application apparatus.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element comprises a breakable adhesive material fastening the detachable cover to the upper face, the breakable adhesive material is breakable by one or more of: turning, bending, pushing and breaking the detachable cover. The breakable adhesive material may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion. The breakable adhesive material may present a low cost solution for locking the detachable cover to the body portion.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the locking element comprises a breakable inner locking element fastening the detachable cover to the upper face. The breakable inner locking element is breakable by bending a neck section of the body portion. The breakable inner locking element may efficiently limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the nail polish applying element comprises a stem and a dispensing head, a first end of the stem connects to a bottom face of the non-screw detachable cover and a second end of the stem connects to the dispensing head, wherein the stem protrudes into the body portion when the non-screw detachable cover is attached to the upper face. The nail polish applying element is shaped for efficient and simple dipping of the dispensing head in the nail polish fluid contained in the body portion. This may significantly simplify the design of the nail polish application apparatus in particular with respect to maneuvering the nail polish applying element to collect the nail polish fluid.

In an optional implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, one or more of the nail polish capsules further comprising one or more sealing elements mechanically coupled to one or more of: the upper face, a neck section of the body portion and the stem. The sealing element(s) may significantly improve sealing of the body portion to prevent spill, evaporation and/or diffusion of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more components of the nail polish fluid (e.g. a solvent etc.) from the body portion.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the dispensing head is constructed of one or more members of a group consisting of: a plurality of hair strands, an elastic tube, a solid pipe, a sponge, a wiper, a spray head and a combination of at least two thereof. This may allow flexible implementation, design, construction and/or production of the dispensing head optionally according to the type and/or characteristics of the nail polish fluid to be sued with each specific dispensing head.

In an optional implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, a width of the stem is adapted to at least partially contact one or more inner circumferential walls of a neck section of the body portion to form a resting area for laying down the detachable cover integrated with the nail polish applying element in the body portion. Providing the rest area may significantly simplify the design and/or production of the nail polish application apparatus by avoiding the need to have the resting area as part of the nail polish application apparatus itself.

In an optional implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, one or more of the nail polish capsules are wrapped in a sealed rippable foil sheet. The sealed rippable foil sheet may further prevent spill, evaporation and/or diffusion of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more components of the nail polish fluid (e.g. a solvent etc.), in particular during storage, handling and/or shipping of the kit.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the nail polish fluid is a member selected from a group consisting of: a nail polish fluid, a base coating fluid, a top coating fluid, a drying material, a nail art polish fluid and a medical nail treatment fluid. Supporting a wide variety of nail polish fluids may allow targeting a wide range of customer market segments, users and/or nail polish applications processes, techniques and/or the like thus making the automated nail polish application apparatus coupled with the nail polish capsules an attractive and efficient alternative for nail polishing.

In an optional implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the non-screw detachable cover further comprising one or more mechanical mounting provisions shaped for grasping the non-screw detachable cover by a mounting element of the nail polish application apparatus, the one or more mechanical mounting provisions are members of a group consisting of: a protrusion, a groove and a cavity. The mechanical mounting provisions may significantly simplify the design of the nail polish application apparatus which may take advantage of the mechanical mounting provisions to accurately and/or easily collect, grasp, lock and/or secure the detachable cover.

In a further implementation form of the first and/or second aspects, the body portion further comprising one or more mechanical docking provisions shaped for locking the body portion in a capsule chamber of the nail polish application apparatus, the one or more mechanical docking provisions are members of a group consisting of: a protrusion, a groove and a cavity. The mechanical docking provisions may significantly simplify the design of the nail polish application apparatus which may take advantage of the mechanical mounting provisions to accurately and/or easily collect, grasp, lock and/or secure the body portion.

In an optional implementation form of the second aspect, the producing further comprising producing one or more sealing elements and mechanically coupling the one or more sealing elements to one or more of: <ul id="ul0003" list-style="none"><li id="ul0003-0001" num="0000"><ul id="ul0004" list-style="none"><li id="ul0004-0001" num="0030">The upper face.</li><li id="ul0004-0002" num="0031">A neck section of the body portion.</li><li id="ul0004-0003" num="0032">A stem of the integrated nail polish applying element connecting a dispensing head of the integrated nail polish applying element to the non-screw detachable cover. <br /> The sealing element(s) may significantly improve sealing of the body portion to prevent spill, evaporation and/or diffusion of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more components of the nail polish fluid (e.g. a solvent etc.) from the body portion. </li></ul></li></ul>

In an optional implementation form of the second aspect, the producing further comprising producing a locking element and mechanically and detachably coupling the locking element to fasten the non-screw detachable cover to the body portion. Wherein the locking element is rigid along a longitudinal axis of the one or more nail polish capsules to limit a movement of the non-screw detachable cover with respect to the body portion in the longitudinal axis. The locking element prevent the movement of the detachable cover sealing the body portion may allow the kit to be stored, shipped and/or handled under extreme environmental conditions without compromising sealing of the body portion.

In an optional implementation form of the second aspect, the producing further comprising wrapping one or more of the nail polish capsules in a sealed rippable foil sheet prior to the inserting. The sealed rippable foil sheet may further prevent spill, evaporation and/or diffusion of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more components of the nail polish fluid (e.g. a solvent etc.), in particular during storage, handling and/or shipping of the kit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>1</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of an exemplary nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>B</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>C</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>D</figref> are perspective and cross section views of a first exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>3</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of a second exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of a third exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b>A</figref> is a longitudinal view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b>B</figref> is a longitudinal view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>6</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>A</figref> presents side and longitudinal cross section views of a first exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>B</figref> presents side and longitudinal cross section views of a second exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>C</figref> presents side and longitudinal cross section views of a third exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>D</figref> is a longitudinal cross section view of an exemplary sealing element of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref> is a longitudinal cross section view including exemplary dimensions of a second exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>A</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>B</figref> are longitudinal cross section views of a second exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>11</b></figref> presents longitudinal cross section views of exemplary nail polish applying elements of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>B</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>C</figref> are perspective side and front views of an exemplary mounting element of a nail polish application apparatus using a nail polish capsule retrieved from a kit comprising one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules, according to some embodiments of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>B</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>C</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>D</figref> are longitudinal cross section views of an exemplary nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule during a sequence of inserting a nail polish applying integrated with a detachable cover of the capsule into a body portion of the capsule, according to some embodiments of the present invention; and

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>14</b></figref> is a flowchart of an exemplary process for producing an exemplary kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a kit for usage by an automated nail polish application apparatus and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a kit comprising one or more nail polish capsules for usage by an automated nail polish application apparatus.

According to some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a kit and methods for producing the kit which comprises one or more storage and dispensing capsules, in particular two-part capsule(s) having a body portion containing nail polish fluid and a detachable cover integrated with a nail polish applying element for use by an automated nail polish application apparatus. The kit may further include a detachable (e.g. moveable, removable, breakable, tear-able, rippable, bendable, rotatable, etc.) locking element physically fastening the detachable cover to the body portion to limit movement of the detachable cover sealing an opening in an upper face of the body portion and prevent spill and/or evaporation of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more of its components from the body portion.

The nail polish applying element integrated with the detachable cover may be constructed of a stem protruding from a bottom face of the detachable cover and a dispensing head for applying the nail polish fluid to one or more nail surfaces of a user's fingers and/or toes. A length of the stem is adapted to a longitudinal dimension of the body portion such that when attaching the detachable cover to the upper face of the body portion, the dispensing head is dipped in the nail polish fluid contained in the body portion.

The capsule(s) which may typically be disposable capsule(s) intended for a single application of the nail polish fluid may be used with one or more automated nail polish application apparatuses. The nail polish application apparatus typically includes one or more elements, for example, a capsule compartment (chamber), a mounting element, an actuator, a control unit and/or the like for automatically grasping the capsule(s), detaching the detachable cover from the body portion, maneuvering the integrated nail polish applying element and/or the like. The capsules(s) may therefore include one or more mechanical mounting provisions, for example, a protrusion, a groove, a cavity and/or the like to support the nail polish application apparatus to collect, grasp, lock and/or the like of the detachable cover and/or the body portion. Similarly, the capsule may include one or more mechanical docking provisions, for example, a protrusion, a groove, a cavity and/or the like to support docking and/or securing the capsule and/or the body portion in a capsule compartment of the nail polish application apparatus.

Optionally, the capsule(s) include one or more sealing elements, for example, an axial sealing element, a radial sealing element and/or the like for improved sealing of the opening in the body portion of the capsule. The sealing element(s) may be mechanically coupled, disposed and/or integrated with the detachable cover, the stem of the integrated nail polish applying element and/or the upper face of the body portion. The sealing element(s) may be produced of a material having a high elasticity coefficient such that after mechanically coupling the detachable cover with the body portion, the sealing element(s) seal the opening in the upper face of the body portion to prevent the nail polish fluid from spilling, flowing and/or evaporating from the body portion.

The detachable cover may be mechanically coupled to the body portion using one or more techniques, methods and/or implementations, for example, press-fit, clamping, clasping, fastening, gluing and/or the like. However, the detachable cover is a non-screw detachable cover meaning that is not screwed to the body portion and hence no rotation operation(s) of the detachable cover and/or of the body portion is required to detach the detachable cover from the body portion.

The datable cover may be mechanically coupled to the body portion with a predefined strength and/or force, for example, 1 G which may suffice for sealing the body portion <b>104</b> while handling the capsule(s) and/or while preparing it for a nail polish application session. The mechanical coupling strength which may translate to the required detachment force may be set to be significantly low (e.g. 1 G).

However, the predefined and significantly low mechanical coupling strength may not be sufficient for sealing the body portion while additional pressure is built inside the body portion. Such pressure may be built due to one or more ambient environmental conditions the capsule(s) are subject to, for example, a pressure, a temperature and/or the like which may affect one or more characteristics of the nail polish fluid contained in the body portion, for example, a volume, a density and/or the like. The changes in the nail polish fluid characteristics may create the internal pressure in the body portion which may threaten the integrity of the mechanical coupling of the detachable cover to the body portion, i.e. the detachable cover may move to some degree thus failing to properly seal the body portion.

To overcome this, the detachable locking element (comprising one or more elements) which is rigid at least in a longitudinal axis of the capsule is applied to fasten the detachable cover to the body portion and limit movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion in the longitudinal axis of the capsule. Where the longitudinal axis is the axis in which the detachable cover is attached and/or detached from the body portion. The detachable locking element which locks the detachable cover to the body portion of the capsule(s) may be removed in order to open the capsule. The detachable locking element may be detached by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus using one or more detachment techniques, for example, moving, removing, breaking, tearing, ripping, cutting, bending, rotating and/or the like.

In some embodiments, the detachable locking element may be facilitated by a rigid container adapted to the dimensions of the capsule(s). The dimensions of the container may be defined, adapted, configured and/or constructed according to the dimensions of the capsule(s), in particular in the longitudinal axis when the capsule is in closed state in which the detachable cover is mechanically coupled to the body portion. For example, a distance between opposite walls of the container may be set such that when the capsule(s) are inserted in the container in longitudinal positioning, one of the walls of the container is in physical contact with an external surface of a bottom face of the body portion and an opposite wall is in physical contact with the external surface of a top face of the detachable cover. Since the opposite walls of the containers are in physical contact with the bottom face of the body portion and the top face of the detachable cover and due to the fact that the container is rigid, movement of the detachable cover in the longitudinal axis is limited and typically completely prevented. Optionally, the container includes one or more mechanical elements, for example, an internal wall, a protrusion, a grove, a cavity and/or the like for arranging, guiding and/or securing the capsules in designated locations during and/or after inserting the capsules into the container. The container may further include a cover that may prevent the capsules from moving, falling and/or shifting from their designated locations.

In some embodiments, the body portion and/or the detachable cover include one or more mechanical locking provisions, for example, a protrusion, a groove, a cavity and/or the like to support applying the detachable locking element(s) to fasten the detachable cover and/or the body portion.

For example, the detachable locking element may include a wrapping sheet having one or more tearing lines which is physically connected to the mechanical locking provision(s) available in the detachable cover and/or the body portion. For example, the wrapping sheet may connect to a mechanical protrusion disposed on at least part of a rim of the detachable cover and to a mechanical protrusion disposed on at least part of a circumferential wall of the body portion, in particular around the top of the body portion next to the coupling area to the detachable cover. As such the wrapping sheet prevents movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion in the longitudinal axis. Tearing the tearing line(s) may release the connection between the detachable cover and the body portion thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover from the body portion.

In another example, the detachable locking element may include one or more detachable clips which may be placed for example, using the mechanical locking provisions to fasten the detachable cover to the body portion. For example, the clip(s) may be placed over the mechanical protrusion of the detachable cover and the mechanical protrusion of the body portion. As such the clip(s) prevent movement of the detachable cover with respect to the body portion in the longitudinal axis of the capsule. Detaching the clip(s) may release the connection between the detachable cover and the body portion thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover from the body portion.

In another example, one or more detachable locking elements may be formed as part of a container storing the capsule(s) such that when inserting the capsule(s) into their designated locations, the locking element(s) are in physical contact with the mechanical locking provisions of the detachable cover and the body portion, for example, the mechanical protrusion of the detachable cover and the body portion.

Optionally, one or more of the capsules are wrapped in a sealed rippable foil sheet, for example, a metal foil, a polymeric foil and/or the like in order to prevent spill and/or evaporation of the nail polish fluid and/or one or more materials composing the nail polish fluid, for example, a solvent and/or the like.

The nail polish application kit may present significant advantages. First, the kit may be easily used by an automated nail polish application apparatus since attachment/detachment of the detachable cover to the body portion is not utilized by a screwing mechanism hence no complex rotation and/or screwing operations and/or mechanisms are required by the nail polish application apparatus. This may significantly reduce the complexity and/or cost of the nail polish application apparatus. Moreover, the capsule(s), the detachable cover and/or the body portion are constructed to include the mechanical mounting provision(s) and/or the mechanical docking provision(s) supporting the nail polish application apparatus to collect, grasp, lock and/or the like of the detachable cover and/or the body portion.

Moreover, the significantly low (e.g. 1 G) mechanical coupling strength of the detachable to the body portion may translate to significantly low detachment force required to detach the detachable cover. Therefore the automated nail polish application apparatus may be equipped with significantly lower cost actuators having limited detachment force thus reducing the overall size and hence reducing the cost of the nail polish application apparatus.

Furthermore, while the significantly low mechanical coupling strength may be insufficient when the capsule is exposed to various environmental conditions, the design and adaptation of the locking element to prevent the movement of the detachable cover sealing the body portion may allow the kit to be stored, shipped and/or handled under extreme environmental conditions without compromising sealing of the body portion.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

A kit comprising one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules optionally having one or more locking elements for sealing the capsule(s) as described herein the present invention may be used by a nail polish application apparatus for applying the nail polish fluid to nail surfaces of a user. However, a person skilled in the art may use the same concepts described throughout the present invention for a capsule used for a plurality of other film forming applications, for example, coloring, applying protective layer(s), applying fluid and/or water resistance layer(s) and/or the like.

Several embodiments of the nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule are described hereinafter. However the presented embodiments should not be construed as limiting. A person skilled in the art may implement, construct, arrange and/or produce the capsules and/or parts thereof through multiple other implementations, structures, shapes, production methods and the like which employ the same concepts described throughout the present invention. Moreover, while one or more of the capsule's features may be described hereinafter for one or more of the embodiments, the features may be applicable for other embodiments as well even when not explicitly stated.

Referring now to the drawings, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>1</b></figref> is a longitudinal view of an exemplary nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary nail polish storage and dispensing capsule <b>102</b> may be a disposable capsule intended for a single application of nail polish on nail surface(s) of the user, for example, hand finger nails and/or foot toe nails. The capsule <b>102</b> may be used with one or more nail polish application apparatuses which control the actual nail polish application process. The nail polish application apparatus is not in the scope of the present invention.

The capsule <b>102</b> may be a two-part capsule constructed of a body portion <b>104</b>, typically a flask shaped body portion and a detachable cover (cap) <b>106</b> attached and/or mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> to seal an opening in an upper face of the body portion <b>104</b>. The body portion <b>104</b> may be constructed in one of a plurality of shapes, for example, a cylinder, a cone, a pyramid, a box, a cup shape and/or the like. The body portion <b>104</b> defines a reservoir containing the nail polish fluid, for example, a polish fluid, a base coating fluid, a top coating fluid, a drying material a nail art polish fluid, a medical nail treatment fluid and/or the like. A bottom face of the body portion <b>104</b>, specifically an external surface of the bottom face of the body portion <b>104</b> is designated by numeral <b>112</b> and a top face of the detachable cover <b>106</b>, specifically the external surface of the top face of the detachable cover <b>106</b> is designated by numeral <b>120</b>.

The body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be produced from one or more materials, for example, a polymer, glass, metal, a ceramic material and/or the like. The body portion <b>104</b> and/or detachable cover <b>106</b> may be air sealed to prevent the nail polish fluid from contacting the air. Optionally, the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be produced from one or more materials characterized by a low permeability coefficient to prevent one or more components of the nail polish fluid, for example, solvents from diffusing and evaporating over time.

The detachable cover <b>106</b> is integrated with nail polish applying element which may be mechanically coupled and/or integrated to the detachable cover <b>106</b>, typically to a bottom face of the detachable cover <b>106</b> such that when the capsule <b>102</b> is in closed state in which the detachable cover <b>106</b> is attached to the body portion, the nail polish applying element protrudes into the body portion <b>104</b>.

The detachable cover <b>106</b> may be mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> through one or more techniques, methods and/or implementations, for example, press-fit, clamping, clasping, fastening, gluing and/or the like. However, the detachable cover <b>106</b> is a non-screw detachable cover meaning it is not screwed to the body portion <b>104</b> and hence no screw and/or rotation operation(s) of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or of the body portion <b>104</b> is required to detach and/or attach the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>.

The detachable cover <b>106</b> may be attached and/or mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> with a predefined strength and/or force which may suffice for sealing the body portion <b>104</b> while handling the capsule(s) <b>102</b> and/or while preparing for the nail polish application session. Strength of the mechanical coupling between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> may be predefined, for example, in terms of detachment force, for example, 1 G. However, the predefined mechanical coupling strength may not be sufficient to prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and compromise sealing of the opening in the body portion <b>104</b> when additional internal pressure is built in the reservoir defined by the body portion <b>104</b> which contains the nail polish fluid. Such internal pressure may be built due to a change in one or more characteristics of the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> contained in the reservoir, for example, a volume, a density and/or the like which may result from one or more ambient environmental conditions of the capsule(s) <b>102</b>, for example, a pressure, a temperature and/or the like.

In order to limit the movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> induced by the internal pressure in the reservoir defined by the body portion <b>104</b>, one or more detachable locking elements may be applied to fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. Detaching the detachable locking element(s) from the capsule <b>102</b> may be done using one or more detaching implementations, for example, removing, moving, rotating, bending, breaking, tearing, ripping, twisting and/or the like.

The body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be shaped, constructed, designed and/or adapted to include one or more mechanical locking provisions, for example, a protrusion, a grove, a cavity and/or the like to support the detachable locking element(s) applied for fastening of the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. In the detachable cover <b>106</b>, the mechanical locking provision(s) may be disposed, for example, on at least part of a rim of the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In the body portion <b>104</b>, the mechanical locking provisions may be disposed, for example, on at least part of a circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be shaped, constructed and/or produced to include a mechanical protrusion <b>122</b> around its rim. Similarly, the body portion may be shaped, constructed and/or produced to include a mechanical protrusion <b>116</b> on the external surface around at least part of the external surface of one or more circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in around the top of the body portion <b>104</b> next to a coupling area to the detachable cover <b>106</b>.

The structure, design and/or configuration of the locking element(s) as well as methods, techniques and/or implementations of applying the locking element(s) to fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> may vary. Some exemplary embodiments are presented hereinafter, however other alternative implementations, designs and/or structures may exist and the presented embodiments should not be construed as limiting.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>B</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>C</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b>D</figref>, which are perspective and cross section views of a first exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>A comprises a rigid container <b>202</b> storing one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, for example, three capsules <b>102</b>. The container <b>202</b> serves as the locking element fastening a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> to a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b> while the capsule(s) <b>102</b> are inserted in the container <b>202</b>. Extracting the capsule(s) <b>102</b> from the container <b>202</b> may translate to removing the locking element.

The dimensions of the container <b>202</b> may be defined, adapted, configured and/or constructed according to the dimensions of the capsule(s) <b>102</b> when in closed state, i.e. the detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled and/or attached to the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, a distance between opposite walls of the container <b>202</b> may be set such that when the capsule(s) <b>102</b> are inserted in the container <b>202</b> in longitudinal positioning, a first wall of the container <b>202</b> is in physical contact with a lower face of the body portion <b>104</b> such as the lower face <b>112</b> and a second wall of the container <b>202</b> opposite the first wall is in physical contact with a top face of the detachable cover <b>106</b> such as the top face <b>120</b>. Since the opposite walls of the container <b>202</b> are in physical contact with the lower face <b>112</b> and top face <b>120</b>, movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b> in the longitudinal axis is limited and/or completely prevented.

The container <b>202</b> may include one or more mechanical storage provisions <b>204</b>, for example, an internal wall, a protrusion, a grove, a cavity and/or the like for arranging, guiding and/or securing the capsules <b>102</b> in designated locations during and/or after inserting the capsules <b>102</b> into the container <b>202</b>. The container <b>202</b> may include a cover that when closed may prevent the capsules <b>102</b> from moving, falling and/or shifting from their designated locations in the container <b>202</b>. The cover may significantly improve packaging, storage, shipping and/or handling of the kit <b>200</b>A.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>3</b></figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a second exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>B comprises a container <b>220</b> storing one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, for example, three capsules <b>102</b>, in particular two-part capsules <b>102</b> comprising a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b> and a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b>. The container <b>220</b> may be shaped, adapted, configured and/or constructed to include one or more locking elements <b>212</b> serving as the locking element, for example, a barrier locking element <b>212</b>A and a barrier locking element <b>212</b>B for fastening the detachable cover <b>106</b> of each of the capsules <b>102</b> to the respective body portion <b>104</b> of each of the capsules <b>102</b>. One or more of the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B may be formed as part of the container <b>220</b> such that the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B are integral parts of the container <b>220</b>. However other mechanical coupling techniques, for example, welding, gluing, press-fit and/or the like.

The dimensions of the container <b>220</b> and/or the dimensions and/or location(s) of the barrier locking elements <b>212</b> as well as relative distances between the barrier locking elements <b>212</b> are defined, and set according to the dimensions of the capsule(s) <b>102</b> when in its closed state. In particular with respect to the mechanical locking provisions available in the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b>, for example, a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>.

For example, the dimensions of the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B and distances between the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B may be configured according to the dimensions and distances of the protrusion <b>122</b> and the protrusion <b>116</b>. When inserting the capsule(s) <b>102</b> into their designated locations, each pair of the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B may be in physical contact with the mechanical locking provisions <b>122</b> and <b>116</b>.

In another example, the container <b>220</b> may be shaped, adapted, configured and/or constructed to include only part of the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and/or <b>212</b>B while utilizing one or more external walls of the container <b>220</b> as an additional locking element. For example, the container <b>220</b> may be shaped and/or constructed to include a barrier locking elements <b>212</b> which is in physical contact with the upper surface of the protrusion <b>122</b> and/or with the external surface of the top face of the detachable cover <b>106</b> such as the top face <b>120</b> while an external wall is in physical contact with the external surface of the bottom face of the body portion <b>104</b> such as the lower face <b>112</b>.

After inserted in their designated locations, the barrier locking element(s) <b>212</b>, for example, the barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and/or <b>212</b>B prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. Removing the capsule(s) <b>102</b> from the container <b>220</b> may release the connection between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>.

Optionally, the container <b>220</b> includes one or more mechanical storage provisions such as the mechanical storage provision <b>204</b>, for example, an internal wall, a protrusion, a grove, a cavity and/or the like for arranging, guiding and/or securing the capsules <b>102</b> in designated locations during and/or after inserting the capsules <b>102</b> into the container <b>202</b>. The container <b>220</b> may include a cover that when closed may prevent the capsules <b>102</b> from moving, falling and/or shifting from their designated locations in the container <b>202</b>.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a third exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

An exemplary kit <b>200</b>C<b>1</b> comprises one or more capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, each locked with a respective wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A serving as the locking element. The wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A is significantly rigid, at least in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>.

The wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A may be placed and/or applied over at least part of the body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b> to fasten and lock the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. In particular, for efficient and/robust locking, the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A may be placed to physically connect to one or more of the mechanical locking provisions available in the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. For example, the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A may be applied over a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> disposed on at least part of the rim of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and to a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> disposed on at least part of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b>. In particular, to minimize the size of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A and hence increase reliability and/or longevity of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A, the protrusion <b>116</b> may be disposed around the top of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b> next to the coupling area to the detachable cover <b>106</b>.

After placed over the body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b>, the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A prevents movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. Breaking, for example, peeling, removing, tearing and/or cutting the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A may release the connection between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>.

Another exemplary embodiment <b>200</b>C<b>2</b> utilizes a wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B having one or more tearing lines <b>224</b> to ease and/or simplify tearing of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B in order to break the connection between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>. The wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B may be placed and/or applied to the body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b> similarly to the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A. Breaking, for example, peeling, tearing, cutting and/or the like the tearing line(s) <b>224</b> of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B may release the connection between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>.

Breaking the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A and/or the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B may be done manually by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus. For example, the nail polish application apparatus may include a cutting element, in particular a sharp cutting element, for example, a razor shaped element, a blade and/or the like designed to cut the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A and/or the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b>A</figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>D<b>1</b> comprises one or more capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, each locked with one or more clips <b>232</b>, for example, a clip <b>232</b>A and a clip <b>232</b>B serving as locking elements. The clips <b>232</b>A and <b>232</b>B are significantly rigid, at least in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. The clips <b>232</b>A and <b>232</b>B may be detached through one or more detachment operations, for example, twisting, rotating, pressing, extracting, releasing, breaking and/or the like which may be performed manually by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus.

The clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be placed and/or applied to fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular, for efficient and/robust locking, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be placed using one or more of the mechanical locking provisions available in the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. For example, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may each be placed to physically contact a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> disposed on at least part of the rim of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> disposed on at least part of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b>. Moreover, to minimize the size of the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B and hence increase reliability and/or longevity of the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B, the protrusion <b>116</b> may be disposed around the top of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b> next to the coupling area to the detachable cover <b>106</b>.

After placed to fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. Removing the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may release the connection between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> thus allowing detachment of the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>.

Placing and removing the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be implemented by one or more of a plurality of techniques. For example, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be simple significantly rigid clips designed, constructed and/or produced to fit with a predefined locking pressure over the mechanical locking provisions available in the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In such case, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be placed by applying a predefined force to install the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B over the mechanical locking provisions while removing the clips may be done by applying the predefined force to remove the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B from the mechanical locking provisions. In another example, the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be implemented as a two part clip having an upper part placed over the mechanical locking provisions available in the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a lower part placed over the mechanical locking provisions available in the body portion <b>104</b>. After placed at their designated locations, the two parts of the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may be attached together using one or more implementations, for example, a rotatable screw mechanism, a breaking section, a tearing section, a rack and pinion mechanism and/or the like. detaching the two parts of the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B from each other may be done according to the attachment implementations and may include, for example, rotating one or more of the two parts of the clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B (typically in opposite directions), breaking a breaking section, tearing a tearing section and/or the like.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b>B</figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>D<b>2</b> comprises one or more capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, each having one or more rotatable clips <b>232</b>, for example, a clip <b>232</b>C and a clip <b>232</b>D serving as locking elements. Each of the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and <b>232</b>D may connect to the body portion <b>104</b> at a single anchoring point supporting lateral movement of the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and <b>232</b>D with respect to the body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b>. The clips <b>232</b>C and <b>232</b>D are significantly rigid, in particular at least in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>.

When in a closed state as shown in illustration <b>200</b>D<b>2</b>A, the rotatable clips <b>232</b>A and/or <b>232</b>B may fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> to prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. In particular, for efficient and/or robust locking, the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D may contact one or more of the mechanical locking provisions available in the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. For example, the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D may each be located to physically contact a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> disposed on at least part of the rim of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> disposed on at least part of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b>. Moreover, to minimize the size of the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D and hence increase reliability and/or longevity of the clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D, the protrusion <b>116</b> may be disposed around the top of the circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b> next to the coupling area to the detachable cover <b>106</b>.

When in an open state as shown in illustration <b>200</b>D<b>2</b>B, the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D are rotated sideways around the anchoring point thus releasing the lock between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>. Rotating the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D may be performed manually by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus. For example, the nail polish application apparatus may be equipped with a capsule compartment in which the capsule <b>102</b> is placed for the nail polish session and/or part thereof. Initially, the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D are in the closed state such that the detachable cover <b>106</b> is fastened to the body portion <b>104</b>. The capsule compartment may be designed, constructed and/or configured to apply inward pressure to the bottom side of the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D to rotate the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D to the open state thus releasing the lock between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, the nail polish application apparatus may use a moving element to press inwards the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D to rotate the rotatable clips <b>232</b>C and/or <b>232</b>D to the open state.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>6</b></figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>E comprises one or more capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, each locked with one or more pairs of magnets <b>242</b> serving as locking elements, for example, a first magnet <b>242</b>A mechanically coupled to a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b> and a second magnet <b>242</b>B mechanically coupled to a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b>. The first magnet <b>242</b>A and the second magnet <b>242</b> are configured, constructed and mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> and the detachable cover <b>106</b> respectively to induce a magnetic field applying an attraction force to attract the first magnet <b>242</b>A to the second magnet <b>242</b>. The magnetic field may therefore fasten the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> to prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>.

The automated nail polish application apparatus may be designed and/or equipped with means for releasing the magnetic locking element, for example, magnetic means adapted to induce a suitable magnetic field. For example, assuming the capsule <b>102</b> is placed in a capsule compartment of the automated nail polish application apparatus. A magnetic field induced from the bottom of the capsule compartment, i.e. around the lower face <b>112</b> the body portion <b>104</b> may apply a counter magnetic force which may cancel the magnetic field induced by the first magnet <b>242</b>A thus releasing the lock between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref>, which is a longitudinal view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of a kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary kit <b>200</b>F comprises one or more capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b>, each locked with a breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> mechanically coupled to both a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b>. As shown in illustration <b>200</b>FA, the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> fastens the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> to prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. As shown in illustration <b>200</b>FB, breaking the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> may release the lock between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>.

One or more implementations may be applied for breaking the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b>, for example, bending, twisting, rotating, pressing, pulling and/or the like. For example, the body portion <b>104</b> may be produced at least partially of a material having a high elasticity coefficient allowing bending, pressing and/or twisting at least part of the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, a neck section <b>105</b> of the body portion <b>104</b> may be produced at least partially of a material having a high elasticity coefficient. The neck section <b>105</b> may therefore be bent sideways, i.e. perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b> thus breaking the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b>. In another example, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be pressed downwards thus causing the neck section <b>105</b> to fold, crumple and/or collapse thus breaking the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b>. Breaking the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> may be done manually by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus.

In another exemplary embodiment of the kit used by the nail polish application apparatus, the locking element fastening the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> may be utilized using a breakable adhesive material. The breakable adhesive material may be applied, for example, to an upper face of the body portion <b>104</b>, to a lower face of the detachable cover <b>106</b>, to both and/or the like such that the breakable adhesive material may prevent movement of the detachable cover <b>106</b> with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular in the longitudinal axis of the capsule <b>102</b>. One or more implementations may be applied for breaking the adhesive material, for example, bending, twisting, rotating, pressing, pulling and/or the like. For example, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be shaped to have a ledge at its lower face which allows pressing down the detachable cover <b>106</b> in the longitudinal axis with respect to the body portion <b>104</b>. One or more of the inner faces of the ledge may be applied with the breakable adhesive material thus locking the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. Pressing down the detachable cover <b>106</b> may break the breakable adhesive material thus releasing the lock between the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. Breaking the breakable adhesive material may be done manually by the user and/or automatically by the nail polish application apparatus.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>B</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>C</figref>, which present side and longitudinal cross section views of exemplary embodiments of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>B</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>C</figref> present three exemplary embodiments <b>102</b>A, <b>102</b>B and <b>102</b>C respectively of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule such as the capsule <b>102</b>. The capsules <b>102</b>A, <b>102</b>B and <b>102</b>C collectively referred herein after as the capsule <b>102</b> apply the same design and/or implementation concepts while presenting various construction alternatives, naturally other construction alternatives exist and the presented embodiments should not be construed as limiting.

The exemplary two-part capsule <b>102</b> (e.g. the capsule <b>102</b>A, the capsule <b>102</b>B and/or the capsule <b>102</b>C) may be constructed with a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b>, typically a flask shaped body portion containing a nail polish fluid <b>150</b> and a detachable cover (cap) such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> attached and/or mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> to seal an opening <b>114</b> in an upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. The body portion <b>104</b> defines a reservoir <b>108</b> containing a nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, for example, a polish fluid, a base coating fluid, a top coating fluid, a drying material a nail art polish fluid, a medical nail treatment fluid and/or the like.

A nail polish applying element <b>130</b> integrated with the detachable cover <b>106</b> may typically be constructed of a stem <b>132</b> and a dispensing head <b>134</b>. A first end of the stem <b>132</b> is mechanically coupled and/or integrated to the bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> while a second end of the stem <b>132</b> is mechanically coupled and/or integrated with the dispensing head <b>134</b>. The stem <b>132</b> may be constructed, produced and/or designed to have a length adapted to the size of the body portion <b>104</b> such that when the detachable cover <b>106</b> is maneuvered to insert the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> into the reservoir <b>108</b>, the dispensing head <b>134</b> dips in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> contained in the reservoir <b>108</b>.

As described before, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> through one or more techniques, methods and/or implementations, for example, press-fit, clamping, clasping, fastening and/or the like. However, the detachable cover <b>106</b> is a non-screw detachable cover meaning that is not screwed to the body portion <b>104</b> and hence no screw and/or rotation operation(s) of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or of the body portion <b>104</b> is required to detach and/or attach the detachable cover <b>106</b> from the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, a width and/or perimeter of a bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be shaped, designed, configured and/or constructed to fit into the opening <b>114</b> with a predefined force level. When the detachable cover <b>106</b> is pressed into the opening <b>114</b>, the perimeter of the bottom face <b>118</b> is in physical contact with an inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> such that the detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> through the pressure maintained between the perimeter of the bottom face <b>118</b> and the inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b>. The bottom face <b>118</b> may be further designed, configured and/or constructed to at least partially protrude into the reservoir <b>108</b> to control the contact surface between the perimeter of the bottom face <b>118</b> and the inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b>.

Optionally, one or more sealing elements <b>140</b> are applied and/or disposed between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> to seal the opening <b>114</b> when the detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled and/or attached to the body portion <b>104</b>. The sealing element(s) <b>140</b>, for example, an axial sealing element, a radial sealing element and/or the like may be mechanically coupled and/or integrated with the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an O-ring, an annular ring and/or the like may be disposed around the perimeter of the bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In another example, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> is disposed around the stem <b>132</b> of the integrated nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, in particular in proximity to the first end of the stem <b>132</b> such that the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> are in physical contact with the inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> in the area of the opening <b>114</b>. In another example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an annular ring may be disposed around the perimeter of the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an annular ring, a U shaped sealing element and/or the like may be disposed at least partially around an inner circumferential wall of a neck section of the body portion <b>104</b> in close proximity to the opening <b>114</b>. In such embodiments, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> by pressing the bottom face <b>118</b> into the body portion <b>104</b> such that the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> are pressed against the inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b>. The sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be produced of a material having a high elasticity coefficient such that after attaching the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may expand or compress accordingly to seal the opening <b>114</b> in the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b> to prevent the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> from flowing out of the body portion <b>104</b>. Moreover, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be disposed on the detachable cover <b>106</b>, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b> such that when attached to the body portion <b>104</b>, a predefined clearance (air gap) is maintained between the bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b> where the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> maintain the coupling to the body portion <b>104</b>.

The sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be designed, constructed and/or produced as a separate part(s), for example, the O-ring, the annular ring and/or the like. Optionally, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be designed, constructed and/or produced as part of the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, for example, as an over-mold on the stem <b>132</b> as a secondary manufacturing step while injecting the stem <b>132</b>.

As shown in a detailed view A in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>B</figref> and in a detailed view B in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>C</figref>, one or more of the sealing elements <b>140</b> may be designed, constructed and/or adapted as a U shaped sealing element having its opened side facing the reservoir <b>108</b>.

Reference is also made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>D</figref> which is a longitudinal cross section view of exemplary sealing element of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Due to one or more environmental conditions, for example, increased temperature, decreased pressure and/or the like, in which the nail polish liquid <b>150</b> and/or one or more of its compounds (e.g. solvents, etc.) may release one or more gases. In such case, the released gas(s) may typically expand in the reservoir <b>108</b> upwards towards the opening <b>114</b>. The expanding gas(s) may travel into the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b> and apply pressure from the inside of the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b> on the external walls of the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b>. As result, the pressure between the external walls of the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b> and the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the stem <b>132</b> may increase thus further improving sealing of the opening <b>114</b>. When the environmental conditions change, for example, the temperature decreases, the volume of the released gas(s) may also decrease thus reducing the pressure applied by the travel of the gas(s) into the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b>. As result the pressure between the external walls of the U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b> and the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the stem <b>132</b> may also decrease. As seen, a predefined clearance (gap) is maintained between the datable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular between the bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. This clearance may allow some movement of the elastic U shaped sealing element(s) <b>140</b> during expansion and/or compression induced by the gas(s) released from the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref>, which is a longitudinal cross section view including exemplary dimensions of a second exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref> presents exemplary dimensions for a second embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule such as the embodiment <b>102</b>B. The presented dimensions employ the metric system and all dimensions are expressed in millimeters. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref> further presents a detailed view C including exemplary dimensions of an exemplary sealing element such as the sealing element <b>140</b>.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>A</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>B</figref>, is a longitudinal cross section view of a second exemplary embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>A</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>B</figref> present exemplary dimensions for a third embodiment of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule such as the embodiment <b>102</b>C. The presented dimensions employ the metric system and all dimensions are expressed in millimeters. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b>B</figref> further presents a detailed view D including exemplary dimensions of an exemplary sealing element such as the sealing element <b>140</b>.

The dispensing head <b>134</b> may comprise one or more materials and/or elements for dispensing the nail polish fluid, for example, a plurality of hair strands, an elastic tube(s), a solid pipe(s), a sponge, a wiper and/or the like. The dispensing head <b>134</b> may further comprise a combination of two or more of the dispensing materials and/or elements. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the dispensing materials and/or elements collect a portion of the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> which may be applied to one or more nail surfaces of the user.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>11</b></figref>, which presents longitudinal cross section views of exemplary nail polish applying elements of a nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>A such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>A such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising a plurality of hair strands. When dipped in a nail polish fluid such as the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> contained in a reservoir such as the reservoir <b>108</b>, the hair strands may be anointed and/or smeared with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>B such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>B such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising one or more elastic tubes. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the elastic tube(s) may be anointed and/or smeared with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>C such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>C such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising one or more solid pipes. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the solid tube(s) may be anointed and/or smeared with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. Optionally, one or more of the solid pipes is hollow, for example, shaped as needle having an internal void along at least part of its longitudinal axis. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the hollow solid pipe(s) may draw (suck) the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> into the internal space of the hollow solid pipe(s) thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>D such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>D such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising a sponge. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the sponge may be soaked and/or drenched with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>E such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>E such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising a wiper. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the wiper may be anointed and/or smeared with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>. An exemplary nail polish applying element <b>130</b>F such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> includes a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> and an exemplary dispensing head <b>134</b>F such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprising one or more spray heads. When dipped in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, the spray head(s) may be filled with the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> thus collecting the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>.

Reference is made once again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>B</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b>C</figref>.

The nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule <b>102</b> may be used by one or more nail polish application apparatuses, the description of which is out of scope of the present invention. However, some aspects relating to the interaction between the nail polish application apparatus(s) and the nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule <b>102</b> are described herein. For example, in order to facilitate the use of the capsule(s) <b>102</b> by the nail polish application apparatus(s) some mechanical mounting provisions may be applied in the capsule(s) <b>102</b>. The mechanical mounting provision(s) may be used by the nail polish application apparatus(s) to secure, lock, grasp, hold, extract, shake, move and/or the like the capsule <b>102</b>, the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. Similarly, some mechanical docking provisions may be applied in the capsule(s) <b>102</b> to support docking and/or securing the capsule and/or the body portion in a capsule compartment of the nail polish application apparatus.

In particular, the mechanical mounting provision(s) and/or the mechanical docking provisions may be applied to the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the detachable cover <b>106</b>. For example, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be shaped, constructed and/or produced to have one or more grooves at opposite sides of the external circumferential wall of the detachable cover <b>106</b> such that the mounting element (shaped accordingly) of the nail polish application apparatus(s) may grasp the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In another example, the body portion <b>104</b> may be shaped, constructed and/or produced to have one or more grooves carved in the external circumferential wall of the body portion <b>104</b> such that body portion <b>104</b> may be secured, locked and/or the like in a capsule compartment (shaped accordingly) of the nail polish application apparatus(s).

In some embodiments, one or more of the mechanical locking provisions may be used as one or more of the mechanical mounting provisions and/or the mechanical docking provisions. For example, a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> which may encompass at least partially the rim of the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be used by a mounting element (shaped accordingly) of one or more nail polish application apparatuses for grasping the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In another example, a mechanical protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> which may encompass at least partially an external surface of one or more circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> may be used to secure, lock and/or the like the body portion <b>104</b> in a capsule compartment (shaped accordingly) of the nail polish application apparatus(s).

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>B</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>C</figref>, which are perspective side and front views of an exemplary mounting element of a nail polish application apparatus using a nail polish capsule retrieved from a kit comprising one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>A</figref>, an exemplary mounting element <b>1202</b> of an exemplary nail polish application apparatus may include an exemplary fixture <b>1204</b> adapted to receive and accommodate a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b>, in particular a detachable cover <b>106</b> integrated with a nail polish applying element such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>. The fixture <b>1204</b> is adapted to ensure an accurate and/or repeatable mounting, positioning and/or locking of the detachable cover <b>106</b> in the mounting element <b>1202</b>. For example, the fixture <b>1204</b> may comprise one or more leaf springs <b>1206</b>, springs and/or the like adapted to receive and accommodate the mechanical mounting provision(s) disposed in the detachable cover <b>106</b>, for example, a protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b>. In another example, the fixture <b>1204</b> may include one or more magnets, electromagnets and/or the like adapted to attract a respective magnet(s), electromagnets and/or the like disposed in the detachable cover <b>106</b> as part of the mechanical mounting provisions.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>B</figref>, the mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered by one or more actuators of the nail polish application apparatus to move the fixture <b>1204</b> to a capsule compartment (chamber) of the nail polish application apparatus hosting a two-part capsule such as the capsule <b>102</b>. The capsule <b>102</b> comprising a detachable cover <b>106</b> such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> integrated with a nail polish applying element such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> and a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b>. The mounting element <b>1202</b> may be further maneuvered to move the fixture <b>1204</b> to grasp and optionally lock (secure) the detachable cover <b>106</b> in the fixture <b>1204</b> by locking to one or more of the mechanical mounting provisions available in the detachable head <b>106</b>, such as, for example, the protrusion <b>122</b>.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b>C</figref>, the mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered such that the detachable cover <b>106</b> locked in the fixture <b>1204</b> detaches from the body portion <b>104</b>. Moreover, the mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered to move the integrated nail polish applying element <b>130</b> integrated with the detachable cover <b>106</b> locked in the fixture <b>1204</b> to a nail polish applying area of the nail polish application apparatus.

The mounting element <b>1202</b> may be further maneuvered to move the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> over one or more nail surfaces of the user to apply the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> to the nail surface(s) of the user.

The capsule(s) <b>102</b> may be further designed, shaped and/or constructed to simplify the operation of the nail polish application apparatus(s) during the nail polish application session, in particular to simplify the operation of maneuvering a mounting element such as the mounting element <b>1202</b> to insert the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> integrated with the detachable cover <b>106</b>. Moreover, the capsule(s) <b>102</b> may be designed, shaped and/or constructed to serve as a resting area for temporarily laying down the detachable cover <b>106</b> on the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular, placing the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> inside the body portion <b>104</b> to protect the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, to temporarily seal the opening in the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the like. such lay down may be required in case, for example, another capsule <b>102</b> is currently used, the nail polish session is paused, a malfunction of the nail polish applying apparatus is identified and/or the like. Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>A</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>B</figref>, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>C</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b>D</figref>, which are longitudinal cross section views of an exemplary nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule during a sequence of inserting a nail polish applying integrated with a detachable cover of the capsule into a body portion of the capsule, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsule such as the capsule <b>102</b> includes a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b> and a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> having an integrated nail polish applying element such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>. A mounting element such as, for example, the mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered to grasp the detachable cover <b>106</b> and optionally lock it in a fixture such as the fixture <b>1204</b>.

During a nail polish application session, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> may need to temporarily be laid down. Moreover, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may need to be placed to temporarily seal an opening such as the opening <b>114</b> in the body portion <b>104</b>. In addition, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> may need to be inserted into the body portion <b>104</b> to dip a dispensing head such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> in a nail polish fluid such as the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> contained a reservoir such as the reservoir <b>108</b> defined by the body portion <b>104</b>.

The detachable cover <b>106</b>, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b> may therefore be designed, constructed and/or shaped to facilitate the body portion <b>104</b> as a resting area for the detachable cover <b>106</b> and optionally simplify insertion of the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> into the body portion <b>104</b>. In particular, the detachable cover <b>106</b>, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b> may therefore be designed, constructed and/or shaped to maintain the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion <b>104</b> while the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> is inserted into the body portion <b>104</b>. Maintaining the parallel positioning may significantly simplify grasping of the detachable cover <b>106</b> by a mounting element such as the mounting element <b>1202</b> of the nail polish application apparatus. This may also improve the temporary sealing of the opening <b>114</b> while the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> is laid down.

For example, an exemplary stem such as the stem <b>132</b> of the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> may be shaped in a conic shape having an external diameter which is slightly smaller than a diameter of the inner circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b>, in particular, the inner circumferential walls of a neck section of the body portion <b>104</b>.

The mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered to insert the dispensing head <b>134</b> through the <b>114</b> in an upper face such as the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. While the mounting element <b>1202</b> is maneuvered to insert the dispensing head <b>134</b> into the reservoir <b>108</b>, the conic shaped stem <b>132</b> may come in physical contact with at least part of one or more inner circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> thus guiding the dispensing head <b>134</b> into the reservoir <b>108</b>. The physical contact between the conic shaped stem <b>132</b> and the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> may allow temporarily laying down the detachable cover <b>106</b> on top the body portion <b>104</b> thus utilizing the body portion <b>104</b> as the resting area for the detachable cover <b>106</b> integrated with the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>. Moreover, the conic design of the stem <b>132</b> may significantly reduce the accuracy level required to maneuver the mounting element <b>1202</b> for inserting the dispensing head <b>134</b> into the reservoir <b>108</b>. The mounting element <b>1202</b> may be maneuvered to bring the dispensing head <b>134</b> to an approximate position in and/or over the opening <b>114</b> and start inserting the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> into the reservoir <b>108</b>. While the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> advances into the reservoir <b>108</b>, the conic shaped stem <b>132</b> may guide the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> to its accurate position to allow efficient dipping of the dispensing head <b>134</b> in the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>.

Reference is now made to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>14</b></figref>, which is a flowchart of an exemplary process for producing an exemplary kit for use by a nail polish application apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention. An exemplary process <b>1200</b> may be applied to produce a kit such as, for example, the kits <b>200</b>A, <b>200</b>B, <b>200</b>C<b>1</b>, <b>200</b>C<b>2</b>, <b>200</b>D<b>1</b>, <b>200</b>D<b>2</b>, <b>200</b>E and/or <b>200</b>F for use by a nail polish application apparatus. The kit comprises one or more nail polish fluid storage and dispensing capsules such as the capsule <b>102</b> optionally locked with one or more detachable locking elements.

As shown at <b>1402</b>, the process <b>1200</b> starts with producing a body portion such as the body portion <b>104</b> for one or more capsules <b>102</b>. The body portion <b>104</b> may be produced from one or more materials, for example, a polymer, glass, metal, a ceramic material and/or the like through one or more production methods, for example, molding, 3D printing, CNC machining and/or the like. Optionally, one or more of the material(s) used to produce the body portion <b>104</b> is characterized by a low permeability coefficient to prevent one or more components of a nail polish fluid such as the nail polish fluid <b>150</b>, for example, the solvent and/or the like from diffusing through the body portion <b>104</b> and evaporating over time.

As shown at <b>1404</b>, the process <b>1200</b> continues with producing a detachable cover such as the detachable cover <b>106</b> for one or more capsules <b>102</b>. The detachable cover <b>106</b> may be produced from one or more materials, for example, a polymer, glass, metal, a ceramic material and/or the like through one or more production methods, for example, molding, 3D printing, CNC machining and/or the like. Optionally, one or more of the material(s) used to produce the detachable cover <b>106</b> are characterized by a low permeability coefficient to prevent the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> and/or part thereof from diffusing through the detachable cover <b>106</b> and evaporating over time.

Optionally, the detachable cover <b>106</b> is integrated with a nail polish applying element such as the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>. A dispensing head such as the dispensing head <b>134</b> of the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> may be produced using one or more materials, for example, a polymer, metal, hair strands, organic hair and/or the like through one or more production methods, for example, molding, 3D printing, extruding, CNC machining and/or the like. In case the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprises a plurality of hair strands such as the dispensing head <b>134</b>A, the hair strands may fixated to a stem such as the stem <b>132</b> of the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> by applying one or more methods, for example, pinching, press fit, stapling, welding, soldering, gluing and/or the like. In case the dispensing head <b>134</b> comprises one or more other dispensing elements, for example, an elastic tube, a solid pipe, a wiper, a sponge and/or a spray head such as, for example, the dispensing heads <b>134</b>B, <b>134</b>C, <b>134</b>D, <b>134</b>E and/or <b>134</b>F, the dispensing element(s) may fixated to the stem <b>132</b> by applying one or more methods, for example, pinching, press fit, welding, soldering, gluing and/or the like. Typically, such dispensing elements may be part of the stem <b>132</b>, the nail polish applying element <b>130</b> and/or the integrated detachable cover <b>106</b> forming a single piece produced using one or more production methods, for example, molding, 3D printing, CNC machining and/or the like.

Optionally, one or more sealing elements <b>140</b> are integrated, applied and/or disposed to the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or to the body portion <b>104</b> to seal the opening <b>114</b> when the detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled and/or attached to the body portion <b>104</b>. The sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be mechanically coupled and/or integrated with the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or the body portion <b>104</b>. For example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an O-ring, an annular ring and/or the like may be disposed around the perimeter of the bottom face <b>118</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In another example, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be disposed around the stem <b>132</b> of the integrated nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, in particular in proximity to the first end of the stem <b>132</b> such that the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> are in physical contact with the inner surface of the circumferential walls of the body portion <b>104</b> in the area of the opening <b>114</b>. In another example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an annular ring may be disposed around the perimeter of the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, a perimeter sealing element <b>140</b> such as, for example, an annular ring, a U shaped sealing element and/or the like may be disposed at least partially around an inner circumferential wall of a neck section of the body portion <b>104</b> in close proximity to the opening <b>114</b>. The sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be designed, constructed and/or produced as a separate part(s), for example, the O-ring, the annular ring and/or the like. Optionally, the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> may be designed, constructed and/or produced as part of the body portion <b>104</b> and/or the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, for example, as an over-mold on the stem <b>132</b> as a secondary manufacturing step while injecting the stem <b>132</b>.

As shown at <b>1406</b>, the nail polish fluid <b>150</b> is inserted into the body portion <b>104</b>.

As shown at <b>1408</b>, the detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b>. The detachable cover <b>106</b> is mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b>. The detachable cover <b>106</b> may be mechanically coupled to the body portion <b>104</b> by applying one or more methods, techniques and/or implementations, for example, press-fit, clamping, clasping, fastening and/or the like. For example, dimensions of the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be adapted and/or defined to fit into the body portion with a predefined level of force. Optionally, in case the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> are disposed on the detachable cover <b>106</b> and/or on the body portion <b>104</b>, the detachable cover <b>106</b> may be adapted to attach to the body portion <b>104</b> with a predefined clearance (air gap) where the sealing element(s) <b>140</b> are configured to maintain the coupling with the predefined level of force. Moreover, in case the detachable cover <b>106</b> is integrated with the nail polish applying element <b>130</b>, the stem <b>132</b> may be configured and/or shaped to fit into an opening such as the opening <b>114</b> in an upper face such as the upper face <b>110</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. Strength of the mechanical coupling between the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion <b>104</b> may be predefined in terms of detachment force, for example, 1 G.

As shown at <b>1410</b>, which is an optional step, the detachable locking element(s) may be produced. As described herein before, the detachable locking element(s) may apply one or more of a plurality of detachment techniques, methods and/or implementations for detaching the locking element(s) from the capsule(s) <b>102</b>, for example, removing, moving, breaking, tearing, ripping, rotating, pressing, twisting and/or the like. Exemplary embodiments of the locking element(s) may include, for example, a container such as the container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> having one or more barrier locking elements <b>212</b>, a wrapping sheet such as the wrapping sheets <b>222</b>A and/or <b>222</b>B, a clip such as the clips <b>232</b>, a magnet such as the magnets <b>242</b>, a breakable inner lock element such as the such as the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> and/or the like. The locking element(s) may be produced from one or more materials, for example, a polymer, glass, metal, a ceramic material and/or the like through one or more production methods, for example, molding, 3D printing, CNC machining and/or the like.

The dimensions of the locking element(s) may be defined, adapted, configured and/or constructed according to the dimensions of the capsule(s) <b>102</b>. For example, in case of the container <b>202</b>, a distance between opposite walls of the container <b>202</b> may be set such that when the capsule(s) <b>102</b> are inserted in the container <b>202</b> in longitudinal positioning, a first wall of the container <b>202</b> is in physical contact with a lower face such as the lower face <b>112</b> the body portion <b>104</b> and a second wall of the container <b>202</b> opposite the first wall is in physical contact with a top face such as the top face <b>120</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b>. In another example, in case of the container <b>220</b>, a distance between opposite barrier locking elements <b>212</b>A and <b>212</b>B may be set according to the distance between external faces of a protrusion such as the protrusion <b>122</b> of the detachable cover <b>106</b> and a protrusion such as the protrusion <b>116</b> of the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, the width of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B may be set according to the distance between external faces of the protrusion <b>122</b> and the protrusion <b>116</b>. In another example, a width dimension of the clip(s) <b>232</b> may be set according to the distance between external faces of the protrusion <b>122</b> and the protrusion <b>116</b>.

The container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> may include one or more mechanical storage provisions such as the mechanical storage provisions <b>204</b> for arranging, guiding and/or securing the capsules <b>102</b> in designated locations during and/or after inserting the capsules <b>102</b> into the container <b>202</b>. The container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> may optionally include a cover that when closed may prevent the capsules <b>102</b> from moving, falling and/or shifting from their designated locations in the container <b>202</b>.

As shown at <b>1412</b>, which is an optional step, the detachable locking elements are applied to the capsule(s) <b>102</b>. For example, in case the detachable locking element(s) is utilized by the container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b>, the capsule(s) <b>102</b> may be inserted into their designated locations in the container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> respectively to fasten and lock the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. In case the container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> include a cover, the cover may be closed after insertion of the capsule(s) <b>102</b>. In another example, in case the detachable locking element(s) includes the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A or <b>222</b>B, the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>A or <b>222</b>B may be disposed over the detachable cover <b>106</b> and the body portion, for example, over the protrusion <b>122</b> and the protrusion <b>116</b> to fasten and lock the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, in case the detachable locking element(s) includes the clip(s) <b>232</b> such as, for example, the clip <b>232</b>A and/or the clip <b>232</b>B, the clip <b>232</b>A and/or the clip <b>232</b>B may be placed, attached, affixed and/or the like to the detachable cover <b>106</b> and to the body portion, for example, to the protrusion <b>122</b> and to the protrusion <b>116</b> to fasten and lock the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>. In another example, in case the detachable locking element(s) includes the magnets <b>242</b>, for example, a magnet such as the magnet <b>242</b>A and a magnet such as the magnet <b>242</b>B, the magnet <b>242</b>A and the magnet <b>242</b>B may be integrated, coupled, placed, attached, affixed and/or the like to the body portion <b>104</b> and to the detachable cover <b>106</b> respectively. In another example, in case the detachable locking element(s) includes the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b>, while coupling the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b> as described in step <b>1408</b>, the breakable inner locking element <b>252</b> may be coupled, placed, attached, affixed and/or the like to lock the detachable cover <b>106</b> to the body portion <b>104</b>.

Optionally, one or more of the capsule <b>102</b> is wrapped in a sealed rippable foil sheet, for example, a metal foil, a polymeric foil and/or the like. In such case, the dimensions of one or more of the locking elements, for example, the container <b>202</b> and/or the container <b>220</b> may be further defined, adapted, configured and/or constructed to set the distance between the opposite walls and/or between the barrier locking elements <b>212</b> to allow insertion of the capsule(s) <b>102</b> wrapped in the foil sheet. In case of the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B and/or the clips <b>232</b>, the capsule(s) <b>102</b> may be wrapped and sealed with the rippable foil sheet after the locking element(s) are applied, for example, after disposing the wrapping sheet <b>222</b>B and/or after affixing the clip(s) <b>232</b>.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

The term “consisting essentially of” means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

It is the intent of the Applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is/are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its/their entirety.